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SHINee Onew Opens Up About SM Entertainment Departure

SHINee’s Onew has recently shared the personal journey that led to his decision on his SM Entertainment departure after an impressive 17-year tenure.

SHINee Leader Onew Discusses SM Entertainment Departure

At the start of 2024, both Onew and fellow SHINee member Taemin announced their departure from the company, a revelation that took many fans by surprise given the duo’s long-standing association with SM Entertainment. Now, five months later, Onew has opened up about the reasons behind his choice to move on.

During a candid appearance on KBS 2TV’s show “The Seasons”, Onew discussed the challenges he faced during his time with SM Entertainment, particularly the immense pressure that came with performing in front of large audiences. Despite his success, Onew revealed that this pressure had been a long-standing struggle for him. However, over time, a shift in his perspective inspired him to embrace new opportunities and consider different paths in his career.

Onew expressed a desire to connect more deeply with people and to use his voice to make a positive impact, even in small ways. He acknowledged his imperfections but emphasized that he is now focused on giving his all in his solo endeavors. This shift in mindset played a crucial role in his decision to leave SM Entertainment, where he had spent the majority of his career. He noted that after being with the company for so long, he began to feel “too comfortable,” which spurred his desire for a fresh start.

“To be honest, after being in such a great company for so long, I started to feel like I was getting too comfortable,” he said. “So, I decided to take on more challenges and see what else I could do. It’s only been three to four months since I left.”

Following his departure from SM, Onew signed an exclusive contract with Griffin Entertainment, a newly established agency that offers him the chance to explore new creative avenues. Despite this significant change, Onew reassured fans that SHINee remains intact as a group. He likened his move to branching out while still staying connected, highlighting his commitment to both his solo career and his enduring bond with SHINee.

This new chapter in Onew’s career marks a period of personal growth and artistic exploration, and fans are eager to see where his journey will take him next.

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LE SSERAFIM Releases Cool ‘CRAZY’ Concept Photos

LE SSERAFIM is ramping up excitement for their much-anticipated comeback with the release of their 4th mini-album. The girl group has just released a series of cool ‘CRAZY’ concept photos.

LE SSERAFIM Hypes Up Comeback with ‘CRAZY’ Concept Photos

As the group continues to build momentum, they dropped a fresh set of teasers at midnight KST on August 18, including stunning concept photos and a concept film that give fans a tantalizing glimpse into the album’s theme and aesthetic.

This comeback is particularly significant for LE SSERAFIM as they aim to move past recent controversies and make a strong statement with ‘CRAZY’. In July, the group faced challenges when their agency, SOURCE Music, decided to take legal action against Min Hee-jin, the CEO of ADOR. The lawsuit, filed in Seoul Western District Court, seeks 500 million won (approximately $395,000 USD) in damages for defamation, business interference, and insult that SOURCE Music alleges were caused by Min Hee-jin. The legal battle has drawn considerable attention, with the possibility that the amount claimed could increase as the case progresses.

Despite these challenges, LE SSERAFIM remains focused on their music and connecting with their fans. The teasers for ‘CRAZY’ have been well-received, showcasing the group’s signature blend of boldness and elegance. The concept photos reveal a striking visual style, while the concept film hints at the intense and dynamic energy that fans can expect from the album. LE SSERAFIM’s dedication to their craft and their ability to channel their experiences into their music are evident as they prepare to make a powerful comeback.

The release of ‘CRAZY’ is scheduled for August 30 at midnight EST, and it is already shaping up to be a milestone in LE SSERAFIM’s career. As the group continues to evolve and navigate the complexities of the K-pop industry, this mini-album also promises to solidify their place in the spotlight and demonstrate their resilience and artistry. Fans also eagerly await the new music, confident that LE SSERAFIM will deliver a comeback that is both impactful and unforgettable.

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NMIXX Drops Powerful ‘See that?’ MV Teaser

NMIXX has ramped up excitement for their upcoming mini-album ‘Fe3O4: Stick Out’ with the release of the “See that?” MV teaser!

NMIXX Hypes Up Comeback with ‘See that?’ MV Teaser

The teaser, which dropped at midnight KST on August 18, offers a powerful glimpse into what fans can expect from the highly anticipated music video, showcasing the group’s signature energy and dynamic visuals.

The upcoming mini-album will feature six new tracks: “See that?,” “Sickuhh (feat. Kid Milli),” “Red Light Sign, but We Go,” “Beat Beat,” “Moving On,” and “Love Is Loney.” Each track promises to highlight NMIXX’s versatility and growth as a group, blending various musical styles and themes to create a cohesive yet diverse project. The collaboration with Kid Milli on “Sickuhh” has particularly piqued fans’ interest, as it suggests a fusion of genres that could bring a fresh sound to NMIXX’s discography.

A Busy Year for NMIXX

NMIXX had previously announced their comeback in July, setting the stage for weeks of anticipation and speculation among their fanbase. With each teaser and update, the excitement has only grown, making ‘Fe3O4: Stick Out’ one of the most eagerly awaited releases of the year.

Adding to the group’s busy schedule, member Haewon has been confirmed as a co-host for the upcoming ‘Idol Star Athletics Championships’ (ISAC). She will join seasoned host Jun Hyun Moo and fellow co-hosts Kang Daniel and Lee Chan Won in leading the event. Supporting MCs DinDin and STAYC’s Sieun will also contribute to the lively atmosphere, ensuring a memorable experience for both participants and viewers.

With Haewon’s role in ISAC and the imminent release of their new EP, NMIXX is set for a dynamic few months ahead. The group’s return with ‘Fe3O4: Stick Out’ on August 19 at 6 PM KST is poised to make a significant impact, further solidifying their position in the K-pop industry. Fans can look forward to an exciting comeback filled with captivating performances, innovative music, and a vibrant presence both on and off the stage.

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YG Entertainment Finally Updates 2NE1 YouTube Channel After 7 Years

After a lengthy seven-year hiatus, YG Entertainment has finally breathed new life into the official 2NE1 YouTube channel, much to the delight of fans worldwide. The update comes just in time for the iconic girl group’s highly anticipated comeback tour.

2NE1 YouTube Channel Gets Updated After 7 Years

The last video uploaded to the account was the music video for “GOODBYE,” a poignant track that many fans regard as the group’s farewell anthem before the members pursued their solo careers. The song, composed by CL herself, marked the end of an era for 2NE1, one of K-pop’s most iconic girl groups.

On August 15, 2024, YG Entertainment surprised fans by uploading a new video: CL’s performance at TREASURE’s encore concert in Seoul. This unexpected update on 2NE1’s dormant channel struck a chord with fans, who were flooded with emotions as they saw the new video alongside the “GOODBYE” music video. CL’s guest appearance at the concert was unannounced, making her performance a thrilling surprise for attendees and viewers alike.

As one of YG’s legendary artists and a pioneer in the Hallyu wave, CL’s stage presence captivated not only TREASURE’s fans but also sparked widespread admiration across the internet. Netizens were quick to praise her, celebrating her enduring influence and unmatched charisma.

During the concert, CL performed two of her iconic tracks, “THE BADDEST FEMALE” and “MTBD,” delivering powerful live renditions that left the audience in awe. The younger artists of TREASURE, as well as the fans, were visibly honored to share the stage with such a trailblazer in the industry.

Adding to the excitement, 2NE1 is set to reunite for a special three-day concert titled “2024 2NE1 CONCERT [WELCOME BACK]” at the Olympic Hall in Seoul this October. Following their Seoul performances, the group will continue their reunion tour in Japan in November and December, marking a highly anticipated comeback that fans have eagerly awaited for years. This reunion promises to be a monumental event, celebrating the legacy of 2NE1 and their lasting impact on the K-pop industry.

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JTBC Issues Apology for Wrong BTS Suga CCTV Video

JTBC has officially issued an apology following the release of the incorrect Suga CCTV video in connection with the BTS member’s DUI incident.

JTBC Apologizes for Airing Wrong Suga CCTV Video

The situation first came to light when JTBC broke the news on August 7, 2024, reporting that SUGA was involved in a DUI case. As part of their coverage, the network aired what they claimed to be CCTV footage of SUGA riding an electric scooter down a main road. This footage quickly circulated, drawing significant attention from fans and the general public alike.

However, it was soon revealed that the footage shown by JTBC was incorrect. According to Dong-A Ilbo and subsequent police investigations, SUGA had indeed been riding an electric scooter, but he had been on the sidewalk rather than the main road as initially reported. BIGHIT MUSIC, SUGA’s management company, confirmed these details, clarifying that JTBC had mistakenly aired CCTV footage of another individual entirely.

On August 16, JTBC addressed this mistake during their live broadcast of ‘JTBC Newsroom.’ The anchor delivered an official apology, stating, “Our newsroom reported BTS member SUGA’s DUI on August 7. In the first part of our report, we aired CCTV footage of an electric scooter passing by on a main road. It was later confirmed through police investigations that the male in the video was not SUGA. We’re sorry for causing confusion.”

This incident has sparked criticism of JTBC’s journalistic standards, as the incorrect footage could have contributed to misunderstandings and unnecessary public scrutiny. Fans of BTS, known as ARMY, were particularly vocal about their concerns, emphasizing the importance of accurate reporting.

As the situation unfolds, the police are expected to summon SUGA for questioning regarding the DUI incident. This development is closely watched by both fans and the media, as the investigation continues to progress. JTBC’s apology, while necessary, has highlighted the need for careful and precise reporting, especially when it involves high-profile individuals like SUGA.

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THEBLACKLABEL Teases New Girl Group MEOVV

Producer TEDDY’s THEBLACKLABEL is generating significant buzz with the announcement of their upcoming girl group MEOVV. Now, rumors are going wild about the identity of the members.

THEBLACKLABEL Teases MEOVV Debut

On August 16, the label officially unveiled the group’s name along with a moving cover and teaser clip, sparking excitement and curiosity among K-pop fans worldwide.

While THEBLACKLABEL has yet to provide detailed information about the group, the teaser has already fueled widespread speculation.

Who Are The MEOVV Members?

Rumors circulating on social media suggest that MEOVV will be a five-member group, potentially composed of four overseas Koreans and one domestic Korean member. This lineup hints at a diverse and globally appealing group, aligning with THEBLACKLABEL’s reputation for innovative and trendsetting music.

Fans are particularly intrigued by the possibility that well-known trainees such as Ella Gross, Bailey Sok, and Chloe Lee may be part of MEOVV. Ella Gross, a Korean-American with German heritage, has been in the spotlight for her modeling career and trainee status under THEBLACKLABEL. Bailey Sok, another Korean-American, is a highly respected dancer and choreographer, while Chloe Lee has also gained attention for her potential in the K-pop industry. Their inclusion in the group would bring a wealth of talent and international appeal to MEOVV.

Additionally, there were earlier rumors that Moon Seo Yoon, the granddaughter of SHINSEGAE Mall founder Lee Myung Hee, might be a part of the group. However, recent claims suggest that the heiress did not make the final debut lineup, also adding another layer of intrigue to the group’s composition.

As anticipation continues to build, fans eagerly await official announcements regarding MEOVV’s members and debut plans. With TEDDY’s track record of producing hits and THEBLACKLABEL‘s reputation for quality, MEOVV is also poised to make a significant impact on the K-pop scene. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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Fantagio Issues Statement Regarding Weki Meki Disbandment

After seven years of captivating performances and building a dedicated fanbase, Weki Meki has officially disbanded. In line with that, Fantagio has issued a statement regarding the Weki Meki disbandment and its members’ future.

Fantagio Addresses Weki Meki Disbandment

On August 16, Fantagio, the group’s agency, confirmed that Weki Meki’s activities as a group concluded on August 8. This announcement followed a previous statement made in June, where the agency revealed the group’s intention to disband, marking the end of an era for both the group and their fans.

Fantagio further disclosed that while Ji Suyeon, Choi Yoojung, and Kim Doyeon were still in discussions about renewing their contracts, the other five members—Elly, Sei, Lua, Rina, and Lucy—decided to part ways with the agency after their contracts expired. This marks a significant transition for the members as they embark on individual endeavors beyond the group.

“We would like to sincerely thank Elly, Sei, Lua, Rina, and Lucy, who shone brightly as members of Weki Meki, and although their group activities have come to an end, we will do our utmost to help them move forward in the future as well. We ask that you send lots of love and support to Elly, Sei, Lua, Rina, and Lucy, who will be showing you even more activities and varied sides of themselves,” the statement read.

A Hopeful Wish for Weki Meki Members

Weki Meki was originally formed in 2017 by Fantagio, comprising eight talented members: Suyeon, Elly, Yoojung, Doyeon, Sei, Lua, Rina, and Lucy. These young women first gained attention as trainees under Fantagio i-Teen, a program dedicated to developing rookie talent. Initially known as i-Teen Girls, the group was groomed to tackle the demanding world of K-pop, honing their skills and preparing for their eventual debut as Weki Meki. Their last single “CoinciDestiny” was released in June.

Over the past seven years, Weki Meki has left an indelible mark on the K-pop industry. Their energetic performances, catchy songs, and the strong bond they cultivated with their fans, known as Ki-Ling, have solidified their place in the hearts of many. As the members move forward in their respective careers, they carry with them the legacy of Weki Meki—a legacy built on passion, talent, and a deep connection with their audience. Their contributions to the K-pop world will continue to be cherished, and their journey will be remembered fondly by fans across the globe.

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RED VELVET Debuts on Billboard 200 and Artist 100 with ‘COSMIC’

Red Velvet has achieved an incredible milestone by making their debut on both the Billboard 200 and the Artist 100 charts!

Red Velvet Enters Billboard 200 and Artist 100

On August 12 local time, Billboard announced that Red Velvet’s latest mini album ‘Cosmic’ had officially entered the Billboard 200 chart, which ranks the most popular albums in the United States each week. This marks a significant achievement for the group, as it is their first time ever appearing on this prestigious chart.

Although ‘Cosmic’ was initially released in Korea and on digital platforms back in June, the physical version of the album was made available in the United States on August 2. Despite the gap between its digital and physical releases, the album’s impact was substantial. For the week ending on August 17, ‘Cosmic’ debuted at No. 145 on the Billboard 200, signaling Red Velvet’s growing influence in the global music scene.

In addition to their Billboard 200 success, ‘Cosmic’ also made a strong showing on several other Billboard charts. The mini album debuted at No. 6 on both the Top Album Sales chart and the Top Current Album Sales chart, making it the sixth best-selling album of the week in the United States. Furthermore, ‘Cosmic’ entered the World Albums chart at No. 4 and the Independent Albums chart at No. 20, further demonstrating Red Velvet’s international appeal and solidifying their status as one of K-pop’s leading acts.

Moreover, Red Velvet made their first-ever appearance on the Billboard Artist 100, debuting at No. 44. The Artist 100 chart measures an artist’s performance across various Billboard charts, including the Hot 100, Billboard 200, and Social 50, providing a comprehensive overview of an artist’s impact in the music industry. Red Velvet’s entry into the Artist 100 underscores their growing popularity and influence not only in Korea but also on the global stage.

This series of accomplishments marks an exciting new chapter for Red Velvet, as they continue to expand their reach and captivate audiences worldwide. Congratulations to Red Velvet on these remarkable achievements!

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MADEIN Confirms September 2024 Debut

MADEIN, the latest rising star in the K-pop industry, is all set to make their grand debut! The girl group is currently preparing for a September 2024 debut!

MADEIN Set for September 2024 Debut

On August 14, their agency, 143 Entertainment, officially announced that the group will soon release their debut EP, marking an exciting new chapter for the members and their fans.

https://x.com/nugupromoter/status/1823535956042846485

The debut EP will feature the title track “UNO,” a song that promises to capture the heart-fluttering emotions of the present moment. With its fresh sound and relatable lyrics, “UNO” is expected to resonate with listeners and establish MADEIN as a formidable new force in the music scene.

MADEIN is a unique seven-member group with a lineup that boasts impressive talent and experience. The group includes Mashiro and Yeseo, who are well-known for their time as members of the popular girl group Kep1er. Joining them are MiU, Suhye, and Gaeun, who previously promoted as members of LIMELIGHT, bringing with them a wealth of performance experience and fanbase. Rounding out the group are Serina and Nagomi, who garnered attention as contestants on the popular survival show “Produce 101 Japan The Girls.” The diverse mix of members from various backgrounds adds a unique flavor to the group, making their debut even more anticipated.

MADEIN Finally Ready to Shine

The announcement of MADEIN’s debut has already generated significant buzz among K-pop fans, who are eagerly awaiting the group’s fresh take on the genre. With a lineup that blends seasoned performers with fresh talent, MADEIN is poised to make a strong impression on the K-pop industry. Their debut is highly anticipated, and fans are eager to see how the group will set themselves apart from the competition.

The group’s debut on September 3 is also expected to be a significant event in the K-pop calendar, drawing attention from fans and industry insiders alike. MADEIN’s debut marks not just the beginning of a new group but also the continuation of the journey for members who have already made their mark in the industry.

As MADEIN prepares to introduce themselves to the world, fans can look forward to a debut that is sure to be filled with excitement, emotion, and a whole lot of talent. With their debut EP and the title track “UNO,” MADEIN is also ready to take the K-pop world by storm, and their journey is just beginning.

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RED VELVET Wendy to Return as ‘Young Street’ DJ

Red Velvet’s Wendy is all set to return as the DJ of SBS Power FM’s “Young Street,” bringing her warmth and energy back to the beloved radio program.

Red Velvet’s Wendy Confirmed to Return to “Young Street” Radio Show

On August 13, SBS PowerFM confirmed Wendy’s much-anticipated comeback, which will begin on August 19, marking approximately a year since she stepped down from the role due to conflicting schedules.

https://x.com/wendythread/status/1823161043796799965

Wendy initially took on the role of DJ for “Young Street” in July 2021, where she quickly won the hearts of listeners with her cheerful demeanor and positive energy. For two years, she created a space where fans could connect with her and enjoy her lively interactions, making “Young Street” a popular show. Her departure in July 2023 left many fans disappointed, but her return is set to rekindle the vibrant atmosphere that she brought to the show. The comeback broadcast is scheduled to air on August 19 at 8 p.m. KST on SBS PowerFM, and fans can also tune in via the SBS Gorilla app for live viewing.

An Awesome Year for Red Velvet

Wendy’s return to “Young Street” comes on the heels of Red Velvet’s recent success with their latest EP, “Cosmic,” which was released in June. The mini-album received an overwhelmingly positive response from fans around the world, quickly becoming a global sensation. Upon its release, “Cosmic” soared to the top of iTunes charts in numerous countries, achieving the No. 1 spot on iTunes Top Albums charts in at least 41 different regions by June 25 KST. This remarkable achievement underscores Red Velvet’s strong international appeal and the global anticipation for their music.

The success of “Cosmic” is a testament to Red Velvet’s continued ability to captivate audiences with their distinctive blend of musical styles and engaging performances. Each track on the album showcases the group’s versatility, further solidifying their status as K-pop royalty. The album’s triumph not only highlights Red Velvet’s established presence in the K-pop scene but also emphasizes their growing influence on a global scale.

As Wendy prepares to return to the airwaves and Red Velvet continues to dominate the music charts, fans have much to look forward to. Wendy’s return as the DJ of “Young Street” is sure to bring back the infectious energy that fans have missed, while Red Velvet’s ongoing success continues to shape the global K-pop landscape.

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